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Resident to replace removed trees with shrubs and native plantings after Commission approves removal at 451 Peakham Road
Summary
Chris Davey received conditional approval to remove a white spruce and two dead trees within the 100-foot Buffer Zone on Oct. 21; the Commission required a mitigation plan (one-for-one tree replacement or four shrubs per tree) and set deadlines for plan submission and implementation.
The Sudbury Conservation Commission on Oct. 21 granted a Negative Determination #3 allowing tree removal at 451 Peakham Road while requiring a mitigation plan and deadlines for planting.
Applicant Chris Davey described plans to remove a roughly 100-foot white spruce (sited near a neighbor’s driveway) and two dead trees in his front yard; he said removal would increase sunlight and allow soil remediation with loam, micro clover and pollinator plantings. Conservation Coordinator Lori Capone and commissioners agreed the trees were within the 100‑foot Buffer Zone and recommended mitigation given the lack of imminent hazard for most trees.
Commissioners discussed mitigation ratios commonly used by the Commission: one-to-one tree replacement or a substitution of four shrubs per removed tree. Mr. Davey agreed to provide a planting plan and to work with Capone. The Commission set a schedule: submit the planting plan by July 15 and complete plantings no later than Sept. 15, 2025 (allowing Mr. Davey time to assess the site), and it requested photo documentation upon installation. On motion by Commissioner Sevier, seconded by Commissioner Cook, the Commission issued the Negative Determination unanimously by roll call.
The decision allows the property owner to address tree health and property maintenance while ensuring the Conservation Department retains oversight of revegetation and restoration in the Buffer Zone.
